The allure of Australia’s sun-kissed shores and iconic landmarks may soon be graced by the presence of royal feet once again. Catherine, Princess of Wales, has sparked excitement with a tantalising hint of a potential family trip to the land Down Under. It’s been over a decade since the Wales family last toured Australia, and it seems they’re overdue for another visit, this time with the children in tow.
During the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in London, the Princess of Wales engaged in a warm conversation with an Australian reservist. Amidst the annual festive parade at Westminster, Catherine shared her eagerness to return to Australia with her husband Prince William and their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The future Queen conveyed her desire to show her children the wonders of Australia, now that they’re old enough to appreciate the experience.
Daily Mirror royal editor Russell Myers relayed the conversation on the Today show, noting Catherine’s enthusiasm. ‘She said she’d love to take the kids Down Under now that they’re a bit older,’ Myers reported. He also mentioned that Prince George, despite having visited as a baby, can hardly believe he’s been to Australia and New Zealand.
The last royal visit by the couple was in April 2014, when they embarked on a 10-day tour with a young Prince George in tow. Since then, plans have been simmering to bring Catherine and William back to Australian shores. In February 2020, there was a buzz of excitement as it seemed the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were set to visit regions affected by the devastating 2019-20 bushfires. Negotiations between the Morrison government and Kensington Palace were reportedly intensifying for what was to be an imminent trip. However, the unforeseen global pandemic put a halt to those plans.
Australian royal enthusiasts are likely to roll out the red carpet for the Wales family, who would undoubtedly receive a reception akin to rock star status. According to the latest Ipsos poll, the Princess of Wales is the most popular member of the British royal family among Britons, with a 66 per cent favourable opinion. Prince William is not far behind, with a 65 per cent popularity rating.
The tradition of royal visits to Australia has a long history, with Prince William first visiting in 1983 as a baby with his parents, King Charles and the late Princess Diana. More recently, King Charles and Queen Camilla completed a whirlwind three-day tour in October last year. Before that, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, then at the height of their popularity as newlyweds, visited in October 2018, coinciding with the announcement of their first child’s impending arrival.
The prospect of the Wales family visiting Australia is not just a thrilling opportunity for royal fans to catch a glimpse of their favourite royals; it’s also a chance to strengthen the ties between the UK and Australia. Such visits often shine a spotlight on local charities, initiatives, and the unique cultural heritage of Australia, fostering goodwill and international camaraderie.
As excitement builds around the possibility of a royal visit, many are eager to see where the Wales family might go and what their trip could mean for Australia. While we await official confirmation, we’re all eager to extend a warm Australian welcome to the royal family.
What are your thoughts on the potential royal visit? Are there any particular places you’d love to see the Wales family explore in Australia? Share your ideas in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
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